2:22pm Thursday 9th September 2010
By Brian Gomm
Over 120 historic properties across Greater Manchester are opening their doors for free as part of Heritage Open Days.
One of the historic gems at the heart of Journal-land is Dam house (Astley Hall) resplendent after being rescued from an uncertain future and a shining example of the success of a concerted community effort.
And on Friday, Saturday and Sunday (Sep 10,11 & 12) the hall and gardens off Church Road, Astley will be open to the public between 10am and 4pm.
A long running campaign headed by 10 determined locals came to fruition 11 years ago when Morts Astley Heritage Trust was formed.
Heritage Lottery Fund money and European Regional Development funding enabled the Trust to but the grade two* listed former Astley hospital building and surrounding woodlands The present building has been dated by the Greater Manchester Archaeological Unit to 1595 and was extended in 1650 by Adams grandson, also named Adam, leaving the substantial frontage seen today.
The building was sold to the Leigh Hospital board in 1893 and used as an isolation hospital. In 1948 a general hospital was created, closing in 1994.
The threat of extensive development and restricted access to the site led to the formation of Morts Astley Heritage Group culminating in their successful bid for alternative development of the site.
Today Dam House is home to: The Heritage Tearooms, conference and community rooms,offices, Trust administration, a conserved ancient woodland, a day nursery and the village clinic.
The top floor of Damhouse has a long room and spectacular exposed timber roof structure.
*Christ Church, Pennington, will be open on Saturday and Sunday as part of Heritage Weekend attractions. The St Helens Road church will be open on both days between 10am and 4pm.
*Atherton's oldest place of worship will also be open to visitors.
Chowbent Unitarian Chapel on Bolton Old Road will be open this weekend on Friday (September 10, 12noon-5pm), Saturday (Sep 11,10am-5pm) and Sunday (Sep 12, 12 noon to 5pm).
The present chapel dates back to 1721 and the first chapel 1645. In addition to the chapel being open, there will be a large display of memorabilia and archive material in the hall, where refreshments will be served
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